Since most of us make a tradition of overeating (and regretting it) on this holiday, what can you do to lower the chances that you'll over-indulge and feel uncomfortable, both physically and mentally? Get a good night's sleep.
Why? Because surveys show people who are under-tired, are more likely to overeat. Maybe we overeat because we're so tired that we think we need a little comfort, or perhaps we do it because exhaustion doesn't help us make good decisions. For whatever reason, we eat more when tired. And very few of us are going to get exercise, beyond a light game of touch football (or hoisting feet on the ottoman for football on TV after the meal).
Sleep will help you get through the meal preparation, whether that's actual cooking or helping keep other guests out of the cook's way. It helps keep people on an even keel, which is often tough to do on these big family occasions. It's important to everyone's well-being. We all know that.
Even better news, it is the best time of the year to get a good night's sleep. Summer's heat has gone. The worst worries about "what am I waking up to" are yet to come. The rain and, in some cases soggy snow, always seem to help me sleep in a way that bitter cold does not.
So remember the basics: go to bed at the same time every night. Sleep in a cool, dark room. Turn off the tech at least an hour (two is better) before you turn in. Sleep on a good mattress. Check those pillows to see if they need replacing. Oh! We'll talk about that next time!
